The story of Ghia – part 1
The beginning In tracing the genealogy of coachbuilding firms, it turns out that they originated in the early years of the last century as…
Fiat 501 S Ghia
The Fiat 501 S Ghia Gariglio.
Vehicle Overview
The Fiat 501 S Ghia was more than just a car—it was a statement of speed, style, and Italian engineering prowess. Born in 1921, this sports variant of the successful Fiat 501 took the automotive world by storm, offering a thrilling blend of performance and elegance. Designed for the discerning motorist, the 501S came in three distinct body styles: a sports tourer with a striking V-shaped windscreen, an open two-seater, and a sleek sports two-seater. Meanwhile, the 501SS, its more aggressive counterpart, was exclusively available in a sports two-seater form, built purely for performance. Beneath the hood, the 1.5-liter engine delivered nearly 30 brake horsepower, a formidable figure for its time. With a top speed exceeding 75 mph, the 501 S was not just a stylish cruiser—it was built to race. Between 1921 and 1926, Fiat produced around 2,600 sports models, each contributing to the brand’s growing motorsport legacy. But it was the final, most refined version that truly cemented its place in history. Featuring a twin-overhead camshaft engine and a body crafted by Ghia Gariglio, this iteration of the 501 S became a racing powerhouse. Its streamlined design and improved aerodynamics gave it an edge on the track, making it a formidable competitor. Success soon followed. In 1921, the Parma-Poggio di Berceto race saw the Fiat 501 S cross the finish line victorious. A year later, it dominated the Aosta-St. Bernard hill climb, proving its agility and power on mountainous terrain. But its greatest triumph came at the 13th Targa Florio, a grueling endurance race that tested both man and machine. The Fiat 501 S Ghia was a symbol of early Italian motorsport excellence, blending innovation with competition pedigree. It laid the foundation for Fiat’s future in racing, proving that performance and elegance could go hand in hand—a legacy that still resonates today.
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Year1921
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MakeFiat
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Model501
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CoachbuilderGhia
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